Mozambique vs Nigeria: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

The October international break is upon us

In the world of international football, every match is a thrilling opportunity to witness fierce competition, stunning goals, and jaw-dropping saves. However, certain matches stand out, whether it's due to historical rivalries, previous remarkable performances, or the sheer talent on display. The upcoming international friendly match between Mozambique and Nigeria, scheduled for October 16, 2023, at 4 pm BST (6 pm local time), undoubtedly falls into this category. While this might be a friendly encounter, the history and recent performances of these two African giants promise an exhilarating showdown.

Before delving into the present and future, let's take a quick trip down memory lane to the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). In that tournament, Nigeria and Mozambique crossed paths, and it was Nigeria who came out victorious with a resounding 3-0 win. That memorable encounter left a lasting impression on football fans and players alike. Fast forward to 2023, and the stage is set for a fresh showdown between these two nations.

Recent form often serves as a reliable indicator of a team's potential, and in this case, both Mozambique and Nigeria are in good form. Nigeria's recent 6-0 victory against Sao Tome and Principe in the AFCON Qualifiers speaks volumes. This dominant performance suggests that the match might witness over 2.5 goals, making it a thrilling spectacle for the fans.

Mozambique, on the other hand, has showcased their strength with just one loss in their last five games. This isn't a team to underestimate. However, there's a notable concern for Mozambique - their defense has shown signs of being leaky, conceding goals in their last six home matches. This vulnerability might be an area that Nigeria can exploit, given their impressive attack.

Kick-Off:

Monday, October 16, 2023, 08:30 AM (IST) Estádio Municipal de Albufeira, Portugal.

Form

Mozambique: W W L D W

Nigeria: D W W W L

Players to Watch

Stanley Ratifo (Mozambique)

Stanley Ratifo, a forward for 1. CfR Pforzheim, was born on 5 December 1994 and is a professional football player. He represents the Mozambique national team and was born in Germany.

Bruno Onyemaechi (Nigeria)

In Norway, Onyemaechi underwent a trial with clubs who worked with player agency Atta Aneke. Onyemaechi was initially put on trial alongside Stabaek, and then Lillestrm and fellow countryman Jerome Philip. Onyemaechi was brought to Lillestrm's training camp in Marbella and participated in exhibition matches, but he was ultimately not signed.

Match facts

• FIFA has selected officials for the senior international friendly between Mozambique and Nigeria on October 16 in Portugal.
• This information was made public by Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Director of Communications Ademola Olajire on Tuesday in Abuja.
• Miguel Nogueira, a Portuguese, will officiate the game. His fellow countrymen Bruno Viera, Paulo Bras, and Ana Loide will serve as the third, fourth, and assistant referees, respectively.

Team news and Injury

Victor Osimhen, a forward for the Super Eagles, is a major question mark for the second friendly against Mozambique due to the injury he got in the game against Saudi Arabia, according to BSNSports.com.ng.Due to an injury he acquired throughout the course of the game against the Green Falcons, the Napoli striker was substituted off early in the second half.

To determine the severity of the injury, Osimhen will have an MRI scan, according to Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro.

Head-to-Head

Matches: 4

Mozambique:  0

Draw:  1

Nigeria: 3

Predicted Lineup for Mozambique vs Nigeria

Mozambique Predicted Lineup (4-3-3)

Emani; Bruno Langa, Mexer, Domingos, David Malembana; Guima, Amadu, Domingues; Geny Catamo, Stanley Ratifo, Witi

Nigeria Predicted Lineup (4-4-2)

Francis Uzoho; Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Tyronne Ebuehi, Bruno; Joe Aribo, Wilfriend Ndidi; Kelechi Iheanacho, Ademola Lookman; Victor Osimhen, Taiwo Awoniyi

Match Prediction for Mozambique vs Nigeria

The most recent game for Mozambique was scheduled to be a friendly match against Guinea-Bissau, but that match was recently postponed. They had just one loss in their previous six games and were coming off back-to-back triumphs when they faced Angola. They will now take against a Nigerian team with one of the best offensive records in football. The Super Eagles have now won three straight games in 2023 after thrashing Sao Tome e Principe by a score of six goals to nil last month. Here, a Nigerian victory is predicted.

Prediction:  Mozambique- 0- 2- Nigeria